8mo–20mo8 minSelf-careFamily timeQuiet time
See-You-Soon Separation Routine
A gentle, predictable micro-separation practice where you acknowledge your child’s feelings, offer reassurance, and build a short goodbye-and-return routine that supports calmer separations over time.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a comfort item (comforter/soft toy/blanket) if you use one
- a safe, familiar spot for your child to stay (highchair/playpen/play mat as appropriate)
Nice to have
- a simple photo of you on a phone or printed picture
- a short timer/phone (optional)
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
What it practices
- Growing sense of will and determination may result in feelings of anger and frustration which are difficult to handle, e.g. may have tantrums.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Is aware of others’ feelings, for example, looks concerned if hears crying or looks excited if hears a familiar happy voice.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to a few appropriate boundaries, with encouragement and support.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Support children who are anxious on separating from their parents by acknowledging their feelings and reassuring them.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)